A pointed example of the increasing importance of emotional intelligence in the modern workplace comes from some NHS research into what makes doctors “go bad”.

According to a small article in The Times today headed “Why some doctors are rubbish”, this research examined what makes some doctors “difficult characters”.  The study found that communication problems were common among those referred. Dr Jenny King, the lead researcher, says “that they may also be seen as emotionally volatile, narcissistic or arrogant.  They can be extremely difficult to please and have poor self-awareness. They may be intellectually intelligent, but not emotionally.”

This news story also reminds me of the power of storytelling within organisations (see, for example, Steve Denning).  Whether this doctor story is true or false, it doesn't actually matter.  It has an impact nevertheless. It can also, in an open and trusting work environment, help both employers and employees reflect on each other's strengths and weaknesses and identify what can be improved on each side for everyone's benefit.